MACON, Ga. — In just a few days, Macon-Bibb County could begin choosing a developer for 21 acres on Coliseum Drive.
Restaurants, shops and a hotel are all options for east Macon's old Bibb Mill site. With bids set to close next week, there are already about eight developers interested in building something east Macon can be proud of.
"It'll bring money to Macon, and plus, it helps the east side community over here too," LeRoy Sanford said.
He's a longtime local in the Fort Hawkins neighborhood. It's a welcome addition for Sanford's nephew, Antrell, who grew up on the east side of town.
"Me and my cousins, we grew up just running around this whole neighborhood," he said. "I think it's a good thing. Hopefully, they bring in some more diverse restaurants. Everybody's tired of the same old thing."
Macon-Bibb County announced their plans for the site in 2022 and worked behind the scenes until late last year. That's when they invited developers to bid on the project. Mayor Lester Miller says they want developers to present plans, or bid so they can decide what fits best.
LeRoy Sanford says he already has some ideas: "HeartWell store, or something like Applebees."
Both Sanfords are just hoping whatever comes in is there to stay.
"I hope that the community will support the businesses that come in so they can stay a lot longer," Antrell Sanford said.
Other neighbors who live in the Mill Hill Arts Village said they're not sure the development is a good idea, for a couple of reasons. They worry about construction, and like Antrell Sanford, whether businesses will be able to stay open.
According to the county's website, bidding closes Thursday at noon. Then, they'll move on to the design phase. Miller says the site is in a special tax district. That means the county can only spend tax revenue from the development in east Macon.
RELATED: Jimmy Dunn launches campaign for Houston County Sheriff. Here's why he put his foot in the race
RELATED: Macon music teacher making waves — and a difference — here in Bibb County. He now has an award, too
RELATED: 'Shortest peach crops in almost 30 years' | The State of Georgia's Peaches was gloomy last year